R&D Associate

Bell International Laboratories; Eagan (MN); On-site; USD 55,000 - 65,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health

Dental

Vision

Long Term Disability

Life Insurance

Critical Care Insurance

Accident Insurance

PTO

Job summary

Bell International Laboratories is seeking a Research Associate to support cosmetic formulation development for skincare, sun care, and OTC products. The candidate will modify formulas to meet client requirements and follow proper procedures for accurate batch preparation.

Responsibilities include sample prep, testing, documentation, and communicating issues with R&D and management to ensure timely, compliant results in a fast-paced environment at our Eagan, MN facility.

Qualifications

• BS in Chemistry or related sciences required.
• 1–3 years as a technician or similar role in the cosmetic industry.
• Knowledge of skincare formulation and OTC product regulation helpful.
• Strong written and verbal communication, teamwork and reliability.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

• Prepare samples based on modifications and instructions from R&D.
• Ensure batches meet specifications and documentation is complete.
• Develop understanding of formulation transition to production floor.
• Perform routine tests (pH, viscosity, organoleptic checks).
• Maintain accurate records and clean laboratory workspace.
• Communicate issues promptly with team and management.

Skills

Laboratory techniques

Formulation knowledge

pH and viscosity testing

Documentation & record keeping

Communication skills

Team collaboration

Problem-solving

Microsoft Office

Education

BS in Chemistry

BS in Chemical Engineering

BS in Cosmetic Science

Tools

MS Office (Outlook, Word, Excel)

Job description

A Research Associate understands basic cosmetic formulation, especially skincare, sun care, and other OTC products, and is able to modify formulas to meet client requirements. The Research Associate will be expected to follow proper procedures; perform accurate computations and batch appropriately for production capabilities. The Research Associate requires a hands-on, team-based approach and will report directly to the R&D Director or Vice President.

Responsibilities

• Perform every job safely to protect yourself, your co-workers, contractors, visitors and the facility
• Accurately and efficiently prepare samples based on modifications of existing formulations and instructions provided by R&D Chemists and management.
• Assure that bulk batches, finished products, and raw materials meet the Bell Labs established sample specifications and quality standards and that sample documents are saved properly.
• Develop understanding of the challenges related to formulation transition to the production floor.
• Focus on learning regulations related to product development, including OTC requirements.
• Develop knowledge on documentation requirements needed during product development as well as batching procedures needed for transition to production.
• Perform calculations to determine proper batch sizes.
• Perform routine tests on products such as measuring pH, specific gravity, viscosity, as well as organoleptic testing of color, odor, appearance and texture.
• Work upon multiple development projects as required.
• Maintain comprehensive and accurate records of all work in formats required.
• Maintain a clean laboratory environment and equipment.
• Communicate research, batching or stability issues and concerns immediately with all relevant personnel to achieve timely and effective results.

Requirements

Required Skills/Abilities

• Working knowledge of laboratory equipment set-up and operation, common laboratory techniques and safe chemical handling .
• Basic skincare formulation knowledge of emulsions, gels, alcohol-based products etc.
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• High level of initiative, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to prioritize multiple responsibilities and manage deadlines accordingly.
• Communicate effectively and professionally with team members, and vendors.
• Displays sense of urgency and initiative with creativity and flexibility.
• Exceptional attention to detail and high level of accuracy & organization.
• Ability to work as part of a team and excel independently in fast-paced environment.
• Ability to adapt quickly to changing policies and procedures.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel)

RequiredEducation and Experience

• BS in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering or related sciences
• 1 – 3 years as a technician or other suitable position in the industry

Preferred Education and Experience

• 1-2 years of experience in formulation of personal care products
• BS in Cosmetic Science
• Thorough understanding of FDA regulations and cGMPs

Additional Information

EEO Statement

Bell International Laboratories provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.

$55k/yr – $65k/yr

Full Time Onsite

Monday-Friday

Eagan, MN

• Health
• Dental
• Vision
• Long Term Disability
• Life Insurance
• Critical Care Insurance
• Accident Insurance
• PTO
• Sick Leave
• 401(k)